Elia Cardenas, a steadfast member of the St. Mark parish for three decades, embodies the spirit of selfless service and unwavering dedication to her community. Since 1997, she has been a cornerstone of the parish and a true example of ministry, touching countless lives through her involvement in various initiatives such as the Unidos Ministry, Immigration Ministry, and Evangelization Ministry. Alongside Monsignor Arturo Banuelos, she has been a driving force behind the Church and Indigenous People Ministry, striving to nurture the spiritual growth of parishioners without requiring them to leave their homes. From making enchiladas and gorditas to participating in the construction and campaigns of the church, Elia’s commitment to the parish’s growth and presence is indescribably remarkable.
In her heartfelt words, Elia reflects on the profound motivation behind her service – the boundless love of God and the call to share that love with others. Through Monsignor Arturo’s guidance, she has come to understand that every act of service is an expression of God’s love working through her. Despite obstacles and challenges, Elia is driven by the love of God, finding strength and inspiration to continue serving her community with unwavering devotion and compassion.
Furthermore, Elia’s role as the wife of Deacon Jesus Cardenas adds another layer of significance to her service journey within the St. Mark parish community. As the wife of a deacon, Elia has played a pivotal role in supporting her husband’s diaconate journey, offering unwavering encouragement, love, and prayerful companionship every step of the way. Her presence alongside Deacon Jesus has enriched their spiritual journey and served as a source of inspiration and strength for others within the parish. Through her steadfast support and commitment, Elia embodies the essence of partnership in ministry, demonstrating the transformative power of love and unity in serving the Body of Christ. As a devoted couple, they exemplify the beauty of shared vocation and mutual dedication to serving God and His people, leaving a lasting legacy of faith, love, and service in their parish community.
Elia’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Progress Annual Ministry Appeal is a testament to her deep understanding of the importance of solidarity and reciprocity within the Body of Christ. She recognizes that not all members of the church have the same opportunities and blessings, and she believes it is her duty to extend a helping hand to those in need. With gratitude for the blessings she has received, Elia advocates for a communal response rooted in counting blessings, extending hands in reciprocity, and supporting one another on the journey toward the presence of God.
Elia provides these beautiful words of encouragement: “If I can support so others can have the same opportunities that I have, why not do that? Let’s all strive a little more, as sons and daughters of God, to ensure equal opportunities for everyone. What is my answer to the blessings of God? How can I respond to the blessings of God in my life? If you were to make a list of all your blessings, how would you respond? What would be your response to that great love and recognize that we are not alone? We are walking together, helping one another. We are supporting one another. You help me and I help you, and we help each other as part of our walk to one day make it to the presence of God – through our blessings and thanks, how do we form that way to the Lord? By sharing His love with everyone we encounter.”
In her dedication and compassionate spirit, Elia exemplifies the true essence of discipleship – to love God and neighbor wholeheartedly. Through her service and advocacy, she invites us all to embrace the call to love and solidarity, recognizing that our blessings are gifts to share with others. May we, inspired by Elia’s example, continue to walk together, support one another, and extend God’s love to all in need.